I have done some searching. However did not see much about how to remove the rope seal above the crank. I have tried to push on one side, but nothing moves on the other. Any suggestions?

I am planning to replace with a rubber seal from NAPA. Any suggestions on how to install that would also be great.

Thanks,
Joe

 

I would loosen the mains a half turn or so. Go up top and see which way you can turn the engine with the fan, or use a screwdiver in the flywheel ring gear. If you have a helper the fan may be a bit easier on you as you work to pull the seal. Which ever way you rotate it go on the side of the crank where it turns out of the bearing and screw a fairly long small diameter metal screw into the rope being careful not to hit the shaft seal surface and allow the screw to protrude some. Now as you rotate the shaft pull down on the screw with a pliers or vice grip. Once the seal is out 3/8 or a half inch you can grab it with the pliers and continue on out. Installation of the rubber seal requires you lube the top half with oil and using the shaft rotation as an aid push it into the groove.

Kotzy

 

You can also fashion a tool out of a cotter pin that is big enough to fit in the main journal's oil hole. Remove the main cap. Bend the closed end of the cotter pin over so it ends at the rope seal. When you turn the motor over in the correct direction, you will spin out the upper bearing shell along with the upper rope seal.
In theory anyway.......

 

RCA I don't think what you suggested will work. Yes you can turn the insert out that way but the metal between the insert and the seal groove will not let you push out the seal. I wish it could be done that way.

Kotzy

 

What we used to use on the rope seals for old jeeps was called( if memory serves) a "sneaky-pete".
It should be available thru napa and works kinda like a flexible corkscrew that you can then pull the seal back out.....send me a private message if you cant find one....I think I have one new and unopened in the package hanging in the garage.
Ed

 

Thanks for the suggestion.

I have been working on the seal for a week now. Could not get it to move. Using a wire, I was eventually able to push it thru. Then slowly added some hook to the end of the wire. Got chunks out. Very slow. I am still not sure that I have gotten it all. But it seems to be pretty clean up there.
Did get a new rubber seal from NAPA. However does not seem to be the right one. Seems to fit too loose in the lower seal holder. Seems the right length but to narrow to fit snuggly in the groove. Back to NAPA next week.

Decided to change the timing chain and water pump while I am in here. Noping to have a reliable engine soon.

Joe